From Sydney: Port Stephens Dolphin, Koalas, 4WD & Sandboarding

About this tour

This 12-hour day trip north of Sydney combines wildlife encounters with coastal adventure at Port Stephens. You'll cruise the marine park hunting bottlenose dolphins, visit a koala sanctuary to spot them in eucalypt bushland, then tackle the Southern Hemisphere's largest active sand dunes by 4WD before sandboarding down their slopes. Coach transport from Sydney is included, plus water and return snacks.

Highlights

• Dolphin spotting cruise through Port Stephens Marine Park
• Wild koalas in the sanctuary's natural setting
• 4WD drive across Birubi Beach and dune system
• Sandboard down Stockton's massive mobile dunes
• 2.5-hour drive from Sydney CBD
• Return coach transport with refreshments included

What to expect

You'll depart Sydney early morning and head north to Port Stephens. The dolphin cruise lasts several hours—bring seasickness tablets if prone. Afterwards, visit the koala sanctuary where animals roam open bushland; photography is straightforward. The afternoon pivots to action: a 4WD guide takes small groups across Birubi Beach and into the dunes, then hands you a sandboard for downhill runs. The dunes are steep and loose; even unfit participants manage it, though those with heart conditions should reconsider. The return coach journey includes light snacks and takes until late afternoon.

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